Crowds gather for York Memorial Day parade, ceremony

YORK, Maine — Despite the sticky, humid weather, parade-goers lined the streets of the downtown in honor of Memorial Day.

Ariella Coombs

YORK, Maine — Despite the sticky, humid weather, parade-goers lined the streets of the downtown in honor of Memorial Day.

At 9 a.m., the piercing sound of a York Police Department cruiser's siren signaled the beginning of the annual parade, which included a mixture of veterans, current soldiers, bands and scout troops.

The patriotic and lively atmosphere filled the streets as veterans and soldiers strolled down the road waving the American flag while children danced happily in red, white and blue headbands.

Parade participants smiled from antique cars and proudly waved flags while observers cheered them on as they passed.

"(We attended) to show our support," said Dale Moulton, surrounded by his family.

Some observers, such as Pat Boncal, attend the Memorial Day celebrations in York each year to continually show support for those who have served.

"It's a tradition," Boncal said. "It's the finest of Americana and the center of York on Memorial Day."

Families and friends also attended the parade to honor the country's military.

"We come out to honor all of the veterans and also the soldiers," said Kathlyne Aylward, sitting with her husband, John, a veteran. "It's very special. They are the reason we are walking around here today."

Immediately following the parade, hundreds gathered at the top of First Parish Cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony to honor those who died serving their country.

"The people we are here to honor today are ordinary people," said guest speaker Lt. Col. Rodney Freeman of the New Hampshire Army National Guard. "We must honor them with deeds and not just words."

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